Reel Diversity
Understanding diversity, multiculturalism, and social justice is a hallmark of the current higher education experience. Engaging students about diversity is a moral, educational and strategic mandate for colleges and universities who desire to produce global citizens in an interconnected world. "Diversity" is also one of the most challenging subjects for many students to grasp. Exploring the "difference that difference makes" can be difficult because there are so many perspectives and opinions about how it can be presented.
Most campuses see diversity from a deficits base (a problem to be solved) rather than as an opportunity. Many campuses are about counting the pepper in the salt, instead of harnessing the power of creative communities. We shine a spotlight on those who are different who then resent being used as tokens. We neglect to critically examine the campus climate and dig deep to understand what it's like to live, work and study there. Non-minority students withdraw from the conversation about diversity because there is no personal benefit, and conflicts, tensions, and communication barriers grow. We struggle to find a way to frame the conversation about tough issues without dissolving into personal attacks.
Brian C. Johnson's creative presentation, Reel Diversity, frames the diversity conversation through modern film. By sharing clips of well-known films and discussing the messages they consciously or unconsciously give, Brian allows every student to see himself or herself as diverse. Students laugh and remember some of their favorite movies, and from there, an interactive presentation about multiculturalism can begin.
Students learn about the concept of "diversity" – its associated values, expressions of identity, similarity, and the devaluation of "different." They are asked to consider the concept of "culture" – its symbols, language, norms, and values in American society. The audience is challenged to care about "social justice" – power, oppression, ethnocentrism, stereotyping, prejudice and discrimination. Students are asked to make personal judgments about these issues and recognize that the opportunity for change exists within each of us.
In addition to race, the program addresses these issues with regard to sexual orientation, socio-economics, religion and disability.
If you have been looking for a truly DIFFERENT and effective way to get your students engaged on these topics, Brian is a wonderful choice. His programs are enjoyable, interactive, thought-provoking, and based in the common experience of popular media. Reel Diversity is a wonderful choice for any campus convocation or educational observance, but is especially popular for new student orientation, MLK celebrations, Black History Month, and other community appreciation events. Be sure to book early for popular times.
Brian's programs are solid, dynamic, and engaging... his efforts to build, serve, represent, and enhance diversity and social justice are outstanding.
- James A. Felton, Director of Multicultural Affairs
Lebanon Valley College
Other programs by Brian C. Johnson
Tending Black Roots: Tracing Your Own Black History
Most African-American and other Black students, for varied reasons, are disconnected from a familial past. Most schools teach students to believe that all African-Americans are descended from slaves, which sometimes greatly influences their identity development. Many African-American students experience poor self esteem and self concept related to being a racial minority. In this program, Brian teaches Black students how genealogy enables us to learn from the legacy of our ancestors, including their struggles, their successes, and their failures. He talks about the challenges of tracing Black roots in his interactive presentation. Participants will walk away from the presentation having begun the process of family history research. In doing so, they may begin to emulate the successes of their ancestors and begin to build stronger futures for themselves and generations to come.
An excellent choice for Black History Month and for year-round programming for Black student organizations.
Brian had a wonderful rapport... his ability to connect with students and his talent at teaching both simple and advanced topics are both truly superior.
- Jennifer M. de Coste
Associate Vice President for Institutional Diversity Initiatives
Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY
L.E.A.D. - Leadership Excellence Acknowledges Diversimilarity
One of our most compelling challenges is the encouragement of student leadership, on and off-campus. This type of leadership entails building relationships and communication with people who have divergent beliefs and values. Campus conversations about diversity are often messy, sensitive, and, for many, down right scary. How can we build effective personal relationships across (and in spite of) differences when people are afraid and unable to talk to each other? This workshop will help students to expand their relationship- building skills by becoming more culturally self-aware, finding common ground, and by harnessing the benefits of living and learning in community with others.
In this program – perfect for new student orientation and leadership development – Brian frames diversity as a leadership issue, making it an appropriate discussion for students of different backgrounds. Brian directs students toward a journey of cultural competence – helping them acquire a factual knowledge base about different cultures, and giving them the confidence and comfort to generate communication between cultures.
About Brian C. Johnson
From 2001-2007, Brian served as the director of multicultural affairs and special assistant to the president at Susquehanna University. He is the founder of the Pennsylvania Association of Liaisons and Officers of Multicultural Affairs, a consortium that promotes best practices in higher education. He is a former trainer with the National Coalition Building Institute and was certified in their prejudice reduction and issues process modules. He is a featured columnist on the Antiracistparent.com website. he also has professional experience in social and human services.
He earned both bachelor's and master's degrees in English from California University of Pennsylvania, and is currently working toward a doctorate (ABD) from Nova Southeastern University. His research is in the area of racial identity development with specialization in white student racial identity.
Johnson is also an ordained minister and serves on the ministry team at Revival Tabernacle in West Milton, PA. In church, he is a fiery speaker and enjoys sharing hope and joy with those to whom he ministers. |
